Related Content

VANCOUVER, Wash. - Disabled veterans will get an opportunity to learn some water sports this month, courtesy of some local businesses that are teaming up to give them a day at Vancouver Lake.

It's all part of a Spring Water Sports Demo that's coming up on Sunday, April 28.

"This is a way for the water sports community to give back to our disabled warriors," said Jeff Campbell. He's the owner of Double Fifth Dragon Boating (one of the companies that have volunteered their time, equipment and effort) and is heading up the event.

Veterans from around the area are invited to stop in to learn rowing, kayaking, paddling and dragon boating. And of course, there will be food so folks can grab a bite to eat.

It's a free event for veterans and their families with plenty of experts on hand to teach everyone the ropes. And there will be opportunities to get out on the water, especially during the dragon boat sessions, which Campbell said will be the easiest for beginners.

To secure a spot you can register online, through Facebook or by calling Double Fifth Dragon Boating at (971) 222-3679. You can also call that number for more information on the event or to talk to Campbell about how you can help. Registration the day of the event starts at 9 a.m.

This is Campbell's first time hosting an event like this and he hopes it will ultimately lead to a disabled water sports program at Vancouver Lake. He's also planning a dragon boat fundraiser at the lake Memorial Day weekend to jump start the idea.

"We'll need new ramps that can handle wheelchairs, new docks, adaptive seats for boats, things like that," Campbell said.

We learned about this event through a news tip. If you have a story for KATU, send us an email at newstips@katu.com. Your emails go straight to our newsroom.